French Napoleonic Infantry Sabre (saber, Sword) For Sale

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Up for sale is a Napoleonic 'melon head' (cotes de melon) sabre. This particular one would have belonged to an infantry officer, as it has a 30" (77 cm) blade. It would have been made by one of the many private manufacturers, to a standard pattern. It is a Solingen blade as the stylized "S" is on the spine. There are initials under the oreillons, but no other makers' marks. This classic style was produced from the mid 1790's to the end of the Napoleonic Wars, 1815. I personally would date this sword to 1795-1805.

The diamond pattern ebony grip is in excellent condition. There are no cracks in the ebony (a common issue with these swords over 200 years later). There is one small chip. The brass guard is also in excellent condition. The sword does not appear to ever have been apart. The grip/hilt is tight to the blade. The blade has typical engravings of the period; flowers, coats of arms. There is some remaining gilt on the blade, but the bluing has worn off entirely. The blade has been field sharpened. The blade itself is in great condition. Itis stainedall along the length; however there is no pitting at all. I could spend some time and polish the blade nearly to 'as new', but will leave it to the next owner to decide whether to gently polish it or leave it as is. This sword has a very nice balance.

The scabbard is all brass, with brass rings and throat. It isin very good shape overall, with the usual dings and minor dents that brass scabbards acquire. The drag appears to be of iron, or possibly steel. It is oxidyzed and pitted, but remains functional.

I purchased this sword from a French collector.

It is also missing the wood inserts for the scabbard. These often fall out or are worn or rotted away.

I am a collector, not a dealer.

I have set a reasonable reserve for this piece of $1,000, less than what I paid for it.

***I guarantee this sword was manufactured in the period 1795-1815***

I am selling a couple of other swords. Feel free to check them out.

Shipping is expensive from Canada. Please enquire if outside Canada or US. Only exact shipping cost will be charged.

If you have less than 10 response, please contact me before offerding, or the offer will be

This item has been shown 519 times. French Napoleonic Infantry Sabre (saber, Sword): $1,125